Another thread recently discussed handloaded lead bullets for SD loads. This is a follow up to what I chimed in with there.
This thread is not intended to discuss the pros and cons to using handloaded lead bullets.
I had come up with a "target" style SD load using a full wad cutter. I had experimented with this bullet a little for Chrono purposes but wanted to test for penetation as I didn't want an over penetrating load.
Bullet and loaded round:
Loaded in 4 inch 624:
This bullet weighs 185 grains and has a meplat of .423.
Loads
12.0 grains Blue Dot 878 fps
13.0 grains Blue Dot 1015 fps
As I didn't feel the 878 fps was as much as I wanted from this bullet weight I went up to the 1015 fps and tested for penetration. The 1015 fps load penetrated 5 gallon water jugs and remained in #5. And actually gave a slight expansion as you can see in the photo! Expanded to .455. With this much penetration maybe the 878 fps load would be better. But after my results below I think I will discontinue this WC use.
I found a few hundred swaged soft lead bullets in a box when I was cleaning up recently. They are many years old and no longer available. They weigh 230 grains. As I thought they had good potential I loaded them with 12.0 grains of Blue Dot as that is my standard load with the Keith 429421 HP of 238 grains that I hunt with.
This load performed perfectly. 1001 fps. Original meplat .333 expanded to .606. Penetrated 4 gallon water jugs and remained inside #4. I think I have found my load right here.